Open quantum systems and cavity opto-mechanics

No quantum systems is entirely isolated from its environment. This basic yet important fact is ultimately responsible for classical features to emerge in quantum systems. We work on how such classical features arise and can lead to exact instances of decohering systems. We are also interested in the mathematical foundations of the study of the dynamics of open quantum systems related to the theory of dynamical semi-groups, asking, for example, for the precise degree of Markovianity of quantum dynamics. A core interest in the context of quantum systems interacting with complex baths is the study of quantum "mechanical" effects in opto-mechanical systems that are cooled by means of exploiting radiation pressure. We think of probing actual quantum effects in such exciting mechanical systems.